Identification of neuropathogenic Varicellovirus equidalpha1 as a potential cause of respiratory disease outbreaks among horses in North Xinjiang, China, from 2021-2023.
Authors: Tong Panpan, Yang Enhui, Liu Bin, Tian Shuyao, Suo Youtu, Pan JuanJuan, Dang Yueyi, Palidan Nuerlan, Jia Chenyang, Kuang Ling, Xie Jinxin
Journal: BMC veterinary research
Summary
# Editorial Summary: Varicellovirus equidalpha1 in North Xinjiang Horse Populations Varicellovirus equidalpha1 (formerly Equid alphaherpesvirus 1, EqAHV-1) ranks amongst the most significant viral pathogens causing respiratory disease outbreaks globally, yet its presence and epidemiology in China had not been formally documented until now. Researchers investigating a respiratory disease outbreak affecting horses in north Xinjiang between April 2021 and May 2023 identified and characterised EqAHV-1 through molecular and serological testing, establishing this as the first documented case series from mainland China. The detection of neuropathogenic strains is particularly significant, as these variants carry elevated risk for neurological complications beyond the typical upper respiratory presentation, potentially causing myeloencephalopathy in affected populations. These findings highlight a critical gap in surveillance and biosecurity protocols across Asian equestrian operations, particularly in regions with high horse densities and variable vaccination coverage, and underscore the need for heightened clinical vigilance when respiratory disease clusters emerge in previously unaffected geographical areas. Equine professionals should consider EqAHV-1 in their differential diagnosis for respiratory outbreaks, implement appropriate isolation protocols, and liaise with regional veterinary authorities to establish baseline serological data and guide vaccination strategies suited to local epidemiological patterns.
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Practical Takeaways
- •EqAHV-1 should be considered in the differential diagnosis for respiratory disease outbreaks in horses, particularly in previously unaffected regions
- •Outbreak management should include isolation protocols and biosecurity measures appropriate for highly contagious herpesvirus infections
- •Monitoring and surveillance for EqAHV-1 in regions without prior documented cases is warranted to understand disease epidemiology and prevent spread
Key Findings
- •Varicellovirus equidalpha1 was identified as the causative agent of respiratory disease outbreaks in horses in north Xinjiang, China from 2021-2023
- •This is the first reported association between EqAHV-1 and respiratory disease outbreak in China